McCall Equestrian Park in Idyllwild offers year-round accommodation for horse owners with tent and RV camping options. The campground maintains direct trailhead access to wilderness riding routes while providing clean showers and restroom facilities. Sites aren't entirely secluded but typically remain uncrowded, offering some privacy for campers and their horses. Fire rings and picnic tables come standard at each site. The bathrooms and showers receive regular maintenance and remain exceptionally clean throughout the camping season. Most visitors consist of families, creating a quiet atmosphere in the evenings except for occasional wildlife sounds.
Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground near Idyllwild serves as another option for horse campers in the Anza region. The campground features drinking water and water hookups specifically designed for horse camping needs. Accessible via drive-in or walk-in routes, the facility accommodates RV camping with designated spaces for horse trailers. Picnic tables and fire rings come standard at each site, with fires permitted year-round except during seasonal restrictions. The campground connects to several trail networks offering cool morning hike opportunities, though summer temperatures can rise significantly by midday. Dripping Springs Campground, located approximately 11 miles from Temecula, provides an alternative with both regular and equestrian campsites featuring horse corrals in the upper loop section, making it one of the more practical horse campgrounds near Anza for riders seeking dedicated facilities.
$25 - $45 / night
"This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."
"The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."
"Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)"
"Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA."
$25 - $50 / night
"well ran, all sites were marked open or reserved with the arrival and departure date on it, bathrooms are the cleanest vault toilets we have ever seen (and we camp all over), there is a fire station located"
"Equestrian sites up the hill. Saw a few rabbits and lizards, not too loud, it’s peaceful and good distance between some sites."
"Great view of the valley below and mountains around."
$30 - $280 / night
"This is listed as horse campsite, but there’s few tent sites available. Not crowded and winds from mountains keep area cooled."
"Few trails for wandering around as well. Great Verizon service"
"Equestrian sites are partial hookup and are $35. There is a dump station on site for all campers to use."
"Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."
$30 / night
"Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back Id just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold."
$35 / night
"Short drive to the park and easy to get to the main grocery stores. The sites are not very shady and there is not too much privacy but overall it's a nice place and the bathrooms are very clean."
"This campground is a little outside the main Joshua Tree area. It used to be the only campground you could reserve ahead. "
$10 - $300 / night
"Already been here twice once in 01/25 and 11/25 great campsite some have access to running water facet if not there are some that are close by, have also close by trash bins, has a little shop near by"
"It is right next to the lake which has a swimming area, bike path, climbing area, Hiking trails, along with a camp store which has boat rentals and much more! "
RangerWe normally camp in the other side of Big Bear, but decided to try a new campground this year. Overall we really liked this campground. Although some of the sites are close together most of them have good separation. There are a lot of equestrian campgrounds in the area so be prepared to see horses on the near by trails. It’s close enough for a quick trip to the lake yet you are far enough away that you still get the true camping experience.
ScoutI was so excited to check this campground out. When my hubby and I arrived we automatically were happy. The campground was very clean, well ran, all sites were marked open or reserved with the arrival and departure date on it, bathrooms are the cleanest vault toilets we have ever seen (and we camp all over), there is a fire station located close to the campground which was good to know in case of fires. The host is very nice and helpful. If you have any questions or concerns he is happy to help! There is running water for dishes and campfires as well as horse corrals for your horse. Pull through sites for trailers. Everyone that was staying on the equestrian loop was amazing. Site 31 did have a problem with ants.
RangerLovely campground in the Orange County foothills. Great hiking and equestrian trails. Excellent equestrian camping with a private corral right next to each campsite in the equestrian area.
Room for large rigs and good space for tents with flat pads.
RangerThis is a really fun place to stay and has a bunch of awesome amenities. Right behind the campground is the Pioneertown Main Street, featuring replica buildings from the old west. They have stores, gun fights, and a restaurant nearby. The campground itself has a communal fire pit and bbq area that all campers can use. Each site has a table and fire pit. The layout of the sites is a little cramped and there is no privacy. It is designed mostly for equestrian camping and has horse stalls you can rent along with your site. The restaurant (Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace) is somewhat of a local icon, and has amazing food and is known for their live music.
GuideThere's about 90 campsites here, with a few on the outer loop that provide alot of space. There's some hiking trails that aren't dog friendly. Cuyamaca lake, Anza Borrego, and Julian are nearby to explore.
TravelerThis is a fairly large campground in the Laguna mountains. We hiked in and got the last walk in spot, so keep in mind that it can be busy on the weekends. The spots are fairly large and include parking, fire pits and picnic tables. Wood is available for purchase on site and kindling is easy to find. This is a nice alpine getaway with pine trees, meadows, a small lake and nearby views of the Anza Borrego desert. Located just off the PCT and other hiking trails.
ScoutI only saw the first 9 or so sites and stayed I think at site #9. For the most part, spacious spots, fire ring, picnic table, a lot of trees, and varied slopes. Road in is placed initially then dirt but is fine. There's other rough roads further in and access to hikes nearby. I loved how quiet it was, except for neighbors since sound carries so easily even though spots are quiet apart from each other. You'll pass an equestrian campground on the way in that you might be able to get water from.
GuideSweet Oaks winery campgrounds has 16 sites available for both tent camping and RV’s (no hook-ups). It’s pretty close to grocery stores and big box stores just in case you forgot some gear/supplies. They have a beautiful well-kept property with super-clean restrooms (no showers). They do have a water hose for you to fill up your tanks or Jerry cans. They didn’t allow campfires due to high fire danger though. You’ll have to bring your own fire pit setup if they ever allow them in the future. It was a beautiful walk around the vineyards but there are also hiking trails nearby. It’s off a road suitable for road bikes but there are also mountain bike trails nearby. They have equestrian activities also available for guests. We were able to get our tin top Eurovan to fit on one of their tent sites which offered a beautiful view of Temecula valley. The wine tasting room was closed due to the pandemic but you can order wine online and they will deliver to your site. One more thing, we counted about 8 hot air balloons as we had breakfast!
LegendCasper is a great park located 15min from the city. It has three main camping areas that cater to campers, RVs and horses. There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles. On Saturdays there’s a nature walk.
Equestrian camping near Anza, California offers access to several trail networks through the San Bernardino National Forest. Located at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 5,700 feet, the region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most horse camping facilities maintain direct trail access and basic amenities with varying levels of seclusion.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Skinner Recreation Area, approximately 20 miles west of Anza, stocks fish throughout the year. "The lake does have fish, so if you're a fisherman you're going to love this campground," notes David N. Visitors should budget for additional fishing fees beyond camping costs.
Morning hiking: Trails near Dripping Springs Campground offer cooler conditions before midday heat sets in. "There is a great hike right out the end of the campground, although it gets HOT because this is more desert land than forest," advises Kate W. The main trail forms a 10-mile loop with connection options to nearly 20 miles of total hiking distance.
Wildlife observation: Lake Cahuilla provides opportunities to see desert wildlife including bighorn sheep. "While visiting family in LaQuinta this was perfect...great view over the lake, clean showers, spaces not too close, walk around the lake, big horn sheep viewing," shares Ann-Marie C. Early morning and evening hours offer optimal viewing conditions.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize bathroom maintenance. At McCall Equestrian Park, "The bathrooms and showers are CLEAN as heck!! Mostly families here so it was nice and quiet at night except for the wildlife," reports Anastasia H. This consistency makes equestrian camping near Anza more comfortable for extended stays.
Proximity to supplies: Most campsites maintain reasonable distance to towns for resupplying. "It's tucked away past residential and about 15 min from the freeway," notes Morgen M. about Lake Cahuilla. This accessibility proves helpful for families or those on longer stays requiring grocery runs.
Dark night skies: The area delivers excellent stargazing conditions away from major light pollution. Lake Cahuilla receives praise for this feature: "Very dark at night which was so great," writes Bryan S. Campers should bring red-light flashlights to preserve night vision while navigating campsites.
Campfire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by location and season. At South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, "Fire bans usually in effect during summer," reports E B. Check with rangers before arrival as restrictions can change rapidly based on conditions.
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Make sure to reserve, spots fill up in the summer," advises Dad & B R. about Dripping Springs Campground. Some facilities operate first-come-first-served only for certain site types.
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant temperature variations. "We didn't expect such a beautiful view!! We happened to be there during the poppy super bloom and the butterfly migration so that was also really cool!" writes Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner, highlighting how timing affects the experience. Summer visitors should plan activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Splash pad access: Lake Skinner Recreation Area offers water play features during summer months. "There is a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost!" notes Jennifer D. This provides relief from heat when swimming in the reservoir isn't permitted.
Kid-friendly biking: Lake Perris State Recreational Area offers suitable terrain for younger riders. "Lake Perris was a fun and clean place to camp at! We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it," shares Lauren R. The relatively flat trails accommodate various skill levels.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds feature interpretive programs. "There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," adds Lauren R. about Lake Perris. These programs typically run on weekends during peak camping season.
Site selection: Choose camping locations based on specific needs and preferences. At Dripping Springs Campground, "Site number 8 is great, also 7 (double site) and 29. Equestrian sites up the hill," recommends Dad & B R. Research specific site numbers before booking to secure preferred features.
Leveling challenges: Many desert campsites require leveling equipment. At Lake Perris, "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker for me," notes Troy A. Bring leveling blocks or stabilizers, particularly for larger rigs.
Water management: When horse camping, water access proves essential. Horse camping facilities typically provide specialized water hookups for equestrian needs. Pack extra containers during summer months when water consumption increases significantly for both humans and animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Anza, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Anza, CA is Lake Skinner Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 27 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Anza, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 41 equestrian camping locations near Anza, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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